“How long does Invisalign® take?” and Other FAQs

Like most people, you’ve probably seen ads for Invisalign®, promising straighter teeth with a marvelously subtle treatment process. But while these ads certainly make clear aligners appealing, they’ve probably left you with a lot of questions. How long does Invisalign® take? How much does it cost? And above all, is it really as successful as the commercials make it seem?

The truth is that Invisalign® really is an effective treatment option for patients with minor to moderate dental misalignment. And, yes, it really is as subtle as it looks on the ads. But those other questions require more detailed answers. Fortunately, Dr. Mina Levi at California Dental Innovations in San Francisco is always happy to answer questions and address patient concerns.

How long does Invisalign® take?

The length of treatment will depend on how misaligned your teeth are to begin with. Some patients can complete treatment in as little as six months, while others must wear their aligners for a year. In general, Invisalign® treatment time is comparable to the time needed for standard braces.

How often should I wear the aligners?

For best results, you must wear the aligners constantly, taking them out only to eat, brush your teeth, and clean the trays. Drinking carbonated water with the Invisalign trays should be avoided.

How long do results last?

Your straighter teeth can last the rest of your life! However, it is important that you follow post-treatment protocol, which typically consists of wearing a custom-made clear plastic retainer or Invisalign brand Vivera® retainer.

How much does Invisalign® cost?

The cost of Invisalign® is comparable to that of traditional braces. On average, the full cost of treatment for a teen is $4500 which included the cost of the first retainers set. The total cost will be reduced by the amount of the dental orthodontic benefits in case patients have dental insurance. However, your exact total cost will depend on your specific needs and the length of treatment.

Fortunately, insurance often covers all or part of the cost of Invisalign®. Plus, we offer flexible financing options.

Can my child have Invisalign® if he still has baby teeth?

Yes! Innovative Invisalign® First is the perfect option for children as young as 6. Invisalign® First is known as Phase 1 treatment. It corrects jaw or bite alignment problems to reduce the risk of serious orthodontic concerns with the permanent teeth.

Plus, Invisalign® First can help break habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrust. (Although Dr. Mina Levi would never recommend orthodontic treatment solely for these reasons.)

How do I care for my aligners?

Caring for your aligners is simple! You should rinse them every night and brush them with a soft-bristled brush, separate from the one you use for your teeth.If you notice an accumulation of calcium or tartar (which will appear as a white film), soak the appliance in a special Invisalign® cleaning solution. You can also use denture or retainer cleaner.